Gear suggestions

For the zion trip, I think the key word here may be "summer". As I recall, even up on the rim (was doing a different route) I was pretty much hot in July the whole time, and barely comfortable at night, so you may not have to worry about cold feet too much that time of year.

I had read that the water temps can still be a little chilly, even in the summer. (I'll be there in early June) Since so much of that hike will be with my feet submerged (wearing trail runners), I thought they might have been a good idea. But if anyone has any experience in the matter and thinks I'll be comfortable with just wool socks, I'd like to spare myself this modest expense.

Oh, and to clarify my questions about a bag/quilt, my main concern is finding one that will fit comfortably. Unfortunately, there are few good outdoor shops in my area, so I don't have much of an opportunity to try a bag out before buying. I've seen some good deals on GoLite and similar quilts here on the Swap, but I'm afraid they'd be cramped or drafty when sleeping on my side. I was hoping someone could give me some insight on how they work for larger folks.

Thanks for the help!

Your mileage may vary depending on personal comfort level, but I live in Utah and frequent Zion National Park. I have done many of the technical canyons (and the Narrows and the Subway) and have never used anything other than Chaco sandals. I have found this very comfortable. However, many people I have talked to are worried about cold feet and stubbing toes. I never found this to be an issue, but most people who do the narrows use 2mm-3mm neoprene socks coupled with 5.10 Canyoneer shoes, which have a built in neoprene bootie. No matter what you use, I HIGHLY recommend a solid walking stick (NOT trekking poles) for the Virgin River hiking (too many rolling, hidden rocks!).